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The International Canoe Federation is receiving regular updates and advice from health experts and the International Olympic Committee on the status of the Coronavirus.

The virus has already caused severe disruption to sporting events around the world, however so far our canoeing program has not been impacted. The Chinese athletes are all currently based outside of China, and the ICF has no events scheduled in China this year.

Constantly changing travel restrictions may impact some of our Tokyo 2020 Olympic qualifying events. We will continue to take advice from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the IOC, and will make decisions which are in the best interests of everyone involved.

The Asian championships and Olympic qualifiers are still scheduled for Thailand this month, and the African slalom qualifiers in France also this month is still scheduled to go ahead.

However, the ICF is continuing to monitor the situation. As always, the health and safety of our canoeing family will be our number one priority.

The chair of the International Canoe Federation’s Medical Commission, Don McKenzie, said people need to take precautions.

“In light of the spread of the coronavirus it is prudent to avoid personal contact as much as possible,” he said.

“I would recommend avoid handshaking, hugs, kissing etc. Masks are only indicated if you are sick, and if that is the case, you should not be travelling. If you are ill, please stay at home.”